The run-up towards the release of Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire has been considerably less dramatic than that of the first game. Mechanically, Deadfire can be described as putting more focus on tactical depth - encounters, abilities, AI - while de-emphasizing traditional strategic resource management elements. The latter change has been a source of worry for fans since the game was announced, and after the beta was released many believed Josh Sawyer would never be able to get it to feel right, but in the end he seems to have converged on something decent enough. With systems and mechanics seemingly in good order, the question that remains is whether the Obsidian of 2018 can deliver on narrative. At this point, they have no more excuses. The return to a Fallout: New Vegas-style open world faction-centric campaign is promising, but the proof will be in the pudding. Without further ado, the launch trailer: